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How Do Curtains Reduce Heat Loss? An Energy-Saving Guide for Warmer Homes How do curtains reduce heat loss in your home? If your rooms feel cold even when the heating is on, your windows are likely the reason. Windows are one of the biggest causes of heat loss in UK homes, allowing warmth to escape through glass, gaps, and cold air movement. Curtains help solve this problem by acting as an insulating barrier. When chosen correctly and used properly, curtains can reduce heat loss, improve comfort, and make your heating system more efficient. In this guide, we explain exactly how curtains work, which types are most effective, and how to use them to keep your home warmer. Why Windows Are a Major Source of Heat Loss Heat loss through glass Glass is a poor insulator. Heat naturally moves from warm indoor air to colder outdoor air, and windows allow this transfer to happen quickly. Even modern double glazing still lets heat escape, especially at night. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that around eighteen percent of heat loss in the average home happens through windows, making them one of the weakest points in thermal efficiency. Draughts and air gaps Small gaps around window frames allow cold air to enter and warm air to escape. These draughts create uneven temperatures and make rooms feel colder than they should. Cold air circulation When warm air touches cold glass, it cools and sinks. This creates constant air movement near windows, increasing the feeling of cold even in heated rooms /products/oxford-thermal-velvet-pencil-pleat-curtains How Curtains Reduce Heat Loss in the Home Curtains act as insulation Curtains reduce heat loss by creating a physical barrier between warm indoor air and cold windows. When closed, they trap a layer of still air between the fabric and the glass. This air pocket slows heat transfer and keeps warmth inside the room. Thermal curtains increase efficiency Thermal curtains are designed specifically to reduce heat loss. They use thick fabrics and thermal linings that reflect warmth back into the room. Thermal velvet curtains are particularly effective because of their dense structure. Products such as Hampton Thermal Velvet Eyelet Curtains combine heavy fabric with thermal backing to noticeably improve room warmth. Reduced radiant heat loss At night, heat escapes through windows by radiation. Curtains absorb and slow this process, reducing the amount of warmth lost while you sleep. /products/cosmos-blackout-eyelet-curtains How to Use Curtains to Reduce Heat Loss Effectively Close curtains at night Heat loss through windows is highest after dark. Closing curtains in the evening traps warmth inside and prevents cold air from cooling the room. Open curtains during the day Opening curtains during daylight allows sunlight to naturally warm your home, reducing the need for heating. Combine curtains with blinds Using curtains alongside blinds creates multiple insulating layers. This combination is especially effective for bay windows and patio doors. Avoid blocking radiators Curtains should not cover radiators. Trapping heat behind fabric prevents warmth from circulating around the room. /products/amberley-thermal-lined-eyelet-curtains What Type of Curtains Reduce Heat Loss Best? Best curtain fabrics for warmth Not all curtains reduce heat loss equally. Lightweight fabrics allow heat to pass through easily. For better insulation, choose curtains made from: Velvet- such as our Velvet Blackout Eyelet CurtainsChenille- such as our Chenille Blackout Eyelet CurtainsWool blendsThick tightly woven fabrics Our Oxford Thermal Velvet Pencil Pleat Curtains are a strong option for combining insulation with traditional style. Why thermal linings matter Thermal linings add an extra insulating layer to curtains. They reflect heat back into the room and are especially useful in older homes, north facing rooms, and large windows. Shop our Curtain Linings here. Our Amberley Thermal Lined Eyelet Curtains offer a balance between warmth, style, and everyday practicality. Correct fit improves performance Curtains should extend beyond the window frame and overlap fully when closed. Gaps around the edges allow heat to escape and reduce effectiveness. Do Thermal Curtains Really Save Energy? Noticeable comfort improvement Many homeowners notice rooms feel warmer immediately after installing thermal curtains, particularly bedrooms and living rooms. Reduced heating demand Curtains do not replace insulation or double glazing, but they reduce heat loss and help heating systems work more efficiently. Affordable energy saving upgrade Compared to replacing windows, curtains are a cost effective way to improve comfort and energy efficiency. See Product What to remember: How Do Curtains Reduce Heat Loss? Curtains reduce heat loss by insulating windows, blocking draughts, and slowing heat transfer. Thermal curtains are especially effective, helping homes stay warmer and more comfortable during colder months. If your home feels cold despite the heating being on, upgrading your curtains is one of the simplest and most effective changes you can make. The right curtains help keep warmth where it belongs.

Decking Your Home with Autumn Curtains: Warmth, Style, and Seasonal Comfort Transform your home this autumn with cosy, stylish curtains. Discover how thermal and blackout designs add warmth, elegance, and energy savings. As the days shorten and the evenings draw in, your home deserves a seasonal refresh. One of the simplest yet most transformative ways to do it? Swapping out your summer window dressings for plush autumn curtains. In this guide, we’ll explore how to deck your home for autumn with curtains that not only look beautiful but also help keep you warm, reduce energy bills, and set the mood for those golden evenings ahead. Why Autumn Curtains Matter Warmth Meets Aesthetic Autumn is all about layering -in your wardrobe and your home. Just as you trade linen shirts for wool knits, your windows need an upgrade too. Lightweight voiles won’t hold back the chill, but thermal and blackout curtains can insulate your space while looking effortlessly elegant. Thermal curtains like Amberley Thermal Lined Eyelet Curtains add a subtle texture and rich depth to your decor while locking in warmth. They’re the quiet heroes of autumn home styling -practical, understated, and surprisingly luxurious. Comfort You Can Feel When temperatures dip, your windows are often the coldest points in your home. Properly lined curtains can help retain up to 25% more heat, meaning you’ll feel cosier without constantly adjusting the thermostat. https://themillshop.co.uk/products/carnoustie-blackout-eyelet-curtains?variant=51501401473371 See Product Choosing the Perfect Autumn Curtain Fabrics Velvet: The Season’s Statement Texture Velvet is the unofficial fabric of autumn. It’s soft, indulgent, and instantly elevates a room. For a touch of timeless sophistication, try the Oxford Thermal Velvet Pencil Pleat Curtains. Their deep, rich tones — think forest green, burgundy, or navy — bring drama and warmth to any interior. Shop our other Velvet Curtains here Thermal Linings: The Hidden Hero Thermal linings do more than just keep out the cold. They also help block out drafts and maintain a steady room temperature. Perfect for north-facing rooms or homes with older windows, these linings can subtly transform how your space feels day to day. Blackout for Better Sleep If your bedroom faces a streetlight or you’re simply after a cocooning feel, blackout curtains are ideal. Try the Casa Blackout Eyelet Curtains — sleek, modern, and versatile enough to suit both contemporary and traditional spaces. /products/blackout-curtain-linings See Product Autumn Colour Palettes That Warm the Soul Earthy Neutrals Beige, taupe, and oatmeal never go out of style. Pairing these shades with natural materials-wooden floors, rattan furniture, wool rugs -creates a calm, organic backdrop that mirrors the landscape outside. Deep Jewel Tones For bolder decorators, deep plum, rust, and emerald are this season’s statement hues. The Carnoustie Blackout Eyelet Curtains make a perfect choice here – rich in colour yet practical for everyday life. Soft Metallics Don’t overlook the shimmer of soft gold or bronze tones. They reflect warm light beautifully, adding a glow that’s especially welcome as evenings darken /products/chenille-blackout-eyelet-curtains See Product Styling Tips for an Autumn-Ready Home Layer Textures for Depth Layering isn’t just for fashion. Combine heavy drapes with soft throws, woven cushions, and textured rugs. The result? A room that feels as inviting as it looks. Mix Patterns Mindfully Autumn is a great time to experiment with pattern - subtle checks, damask motifs, or even gentle florals. Keep it cohesive by choosing one dominant hue and echoing it across accessories. Don’t Forget the Hardware Eyelet curtains, like the Amberley Thermal Lined Eyelet Curtains, glide easily along their poles, giving a clean and modern finish. For a softer, traditional look, go for pencil pleats paired with decorative tiebacks. Shop our full Hardware range here https://themillshop.co.uk/products/amberley-thermal-lined-eyelet-curtains?_pos=1&_psq=amberley&_ss=e&_v=1.0&variant=51500322193755 See Product Beyond Aesthetics - The Practical Benefits Energy Efficiency Thermal and blackout curtains can act as natural insulators, helping reduce heating costs - a small investment that pays back over a long, cold UK winter. Privacy & Peace Thicker fabrics create a sense of sanctuary, perfect for quiet evenings or lazy Sunday mornings when you just want to stay cocooned. Low Maintenance, Long-Lasting Many modern curtain fabrics are machine washable and durable, meaning they’ll stay beautiful season after season with minimal fuss. https://themillshop.co.uk/products/hampton-thermal-velvet-eyelet-curtains?variant=51519557009755

Keep your net curtains white fresh and long lasting Net curtains offer privacy and light control but they gather dust quickly. To keep them looking clean you need the right washing routine and regular care. This guide from The Mill Shop explains the best ways to wash net curtains, remove stains, prevent yellowing and keep them in top condition. 1. How to Wash Net Curtains Cleaning net curtains correctly helps prevent damage and keeps the fabric fresh. Hand Washing Net Curtains Hand washing is suitable for most nets. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and mild detergent Submerge the curtains and move them gently Rinse until the water is fully clear Do not twist or wring the fabric Machine Washing Net Curtains If the fabric is suitable for machine washing: Use a delicate cycle Place nets in a laundry bag Wash with cold water and mild detergent When to Choose Professional Cleaning Very delicate or detailed nets may need specialist cleaning for safe results. 2. How to Remove Stains From Net Curtains Cleaning stains early prevents long term marks. Dust Removal Shake the curtains outdoors or vacuum them with a soft brush attachment on a low setting. Food or Drink Stains Blot the area with a clean cloth.Use diluted detergent or a mild vinegar solution.Test on a hidden area before applying. Mould or Mildew Use equal parts water and vinegar or water and hydrogen peroxide.Apply with a cloth, rinse well and let the curtains air dry. 3. How to Stop Net Curtains From Yellowing Sunlight and dust can cause nets to discolour. Reduce yellowing by: Rotating curtains to share sun exposure Using blinds or sheers behind them to limit UV light 4. Routine Net Curtain Maintenance Regular upkeep helps prolong the life of your curtains. Dust weekly Wash every three to six months Iron on a low heat from the reverse side Store in a cool dry space away from sunlight 5. The Mill Shop Recommended Washing Instructions For best results: Wash at no more than 30°C Use a mild detergent mixed well with water Soak nets for 10 to 15 minutes Move the fabric gently through the water Rinse until the water runs clear Press out water without twisting or use a towel to absorb moisture Hang to dry with minimal creasing For very delicate nets use a bath wash. Fully cover the fabric with lukewarm water soak for 10 to 20 minutes then move lightly through the water. Hang while damp and set folds straight away. Avoid tumble drying because heat can damage the fibres. If you need curtains that cope well with frequent washing consider switching to voiles which are more durable due to their tighter weave. Final Tips With regular washing and simple maintenance your net curtains can stay bright clean and long lasting. The Mill Shop recommends choosing the right wash method dealing with stains promptly and protecting nets from strong sunlight to keep them looking their best.

What Are Wire, Hooks & Eyes? Wire, hooks, and eyes are simple hardware items used to install lightweight slot-top curtains. Wire is a slim, flexible, plastic-coated cord designed to support light fabrics across a window space. Hooks and eyes are small fixings that secure the wire in place. Hooks attach to the frame or surface, and eyes twist onto each end of the wire so it can connect securely to the hooks. Together, these parts form a straightforward method for mounting lightweight curtains. Is This Method Right for You? For slot-top headings, wire with hooks and eyes is a suitable and reliable installation option. It works best with lightweight fabrics, as heavier materials may place too much tension on the wire. This setup requires drilling. It is well suited to wooden frames. Drilling into PVC frames may affect the manufacturer’s warranty, so it is advisable to check before proceeding. If you want a compact, low-profile, and effective way to install lightweight curtains, the wire-and-hook system available at The Mill Shop is a practical choice. How to Install Curtains Using Wire Completed in five easy steps What You Need Slot-top lightweight curtain Minimum of 2 hooks and 2 eyes Wire cut to the required length Drill with a 1.5 mm bit Pliers for cutting and adjusting the wire Step 1 Attach an eye fitting to one end of the wire by twisting it clockwise until secure. Step 2 Prepare the drill so that only about 7 mm of the drill bit is visible. Drill a pilot hole in the upper right-hand corner of the frame. Insert a hook and twist until firmly fixed. Step 3 Connect the wire (with the first eye attached) to the installed hook. Extend the wire to the opposite side of the frame to measure the required length. Cut the wire about 10% shorter than the stretched distance to prevent sagging. Step 4 Twist the second eye onto the opposite end of the wire. Stretch it to the other side of the frame and secure the second hook using the same drilling method.Optional: Add a centre hook for additional support. Step 5 Detach the wire and feed it through the slot-top heading of your curtain using the eyes. Once threaded, reattach both ends to the hooks. No-Drill Alternatives from The Mill Shop If you prefer to avoid drilling, The Mill Shop offers tension rods in a range of sizes, as well as self-adhesive supports for quick, tool-free installation. These options are suitable for rented homes or for anyone who wants a non-invasive method. Whether you choose a wire-and-hook system or a tension rod, The Mill Shop provides practical solutions for installing lightweight slot-top curtains in a simple, reliable way, as well as a wide range of hardware for all your curtain needs. See Product See Product

Discover whether thermal or blackout curtains are the right choice for your home this winter - warmth, darkness, energy-saving, all covered. When the nights draw in and the chill starts to creep through your windows, you might find yourself wondering: “Should I reach for thermal curtains or blackout curtains this winter?” It’s a good question. Both serve a purpose, but they’re not quite the same, especially when it comes to thermal vs blackout curtains . Today we’ll walk through the differences, the benefits of each, and help you decide which curtain style suits your home, your lifestyle and your winter ambitions. /products/amberley-thermal-lined-eyelet-curtains /products/carnoustie-blackout-eyelet-curtains Why this matters for your home A cold draft is more than just annoying Many UK homes, especially older ones, experience considerable heat loss through their windows. According to one estimate, installing window coverings like thick, lined curtains can help minimise heat escaping and keep room temperatures more consistent. The winter window challenge In winter you’re facing two major issues: heat escaping and less natural light. A great curtain not only looks good but can help you feel warmer, sleep better, and spendless on energy bills. Matching rooms to needs Not every room has the same demands. A snug living room might prioritise insulation, whereas a bedroom might prioritise darkness. That’s why understanding thermal vs blackout curtains helps you match curtain type to purpose. What are thermal curtains? How they work Thermal curtains are specifically designed to reduce heat transfer. They often use a multi-layer construction (for example, the fabric front + insulating lining + backing) so they trap a cushion of air between the window and the room.  That ‘air pocket’ acts like a barrier.  Key benefits They help keep warmth in during winter and can reflect unwanted sun/heat during summer Because of their lining and heavier fabric, they can also reduce draughts and make a room feel cosier.  They tend to be slightly more flexible in style (you might get more light filtering through) which makes them suitable for living rooms or multi-purpose spaces. /products/chenille-blackout-pencil-pleat-curtains https://themillshop.co.uk/products/hampton-thermal-velvet-eyelet-curtains?_pos=1&_sid=594224f20&_ss=r&variant=51519557009755 What are blackout curtains?  How they work Blackout curtains are built with light-blocking in mind. Their fabrics are densely woven or coated so that very little (if any) light passes through. Some also incorporate insulating or thermal features, but that’s not their main function  Key benefits They can create near-total darkness, which is great for bedrooms, nurseries or rooms with lots of external light.  They also help with insulation and can trap heat in (or block heat gain) because of their dense fabric.  Excellent for privacy and blocking streetlights, external glow, early sunrise etc. /products/casa-blackout-eyelet-curtains /products/temple-velvet-blackout-eyelet-curtains Feature Thermal Curtains Blackout Curtains Primary function Insulation – retaining warmth + reducing heat loss Light blocking – creating darkness + added insulation as secondary benefit  Light control Moderate – some light may filter through Very high – near complete darkness possible Best rooms Living rooms, dining rooms, draught-prone windows Bedrooms, nurseries, shift-worker rooms, media rooms Style/fabric flexibility Typically a wide choice, more options for finishes Often heavier fabrics, fewer ultra-light options Cost/installation May need good hardware due to weight, but focused on insulation Heavier hardware often needed, but purpose-built for darkness Winter benefit Excellent for energy efficiency and thermal retention. Good benefit too, but primary goal isn’t always insulation alone. So, in short: If your priority is warmth, comfort and energy-saving through winter, go with thermal. Shop our full Thermal Curtains Range here If you prioritise darkness, privacy or blocking external light, go with blackout. Shop our full Blackout Curtains range here  Ask yourself the right questions Do you struggle with cold windows, draughts or rooms that feel chilly despite the heating? → Lean thermal Is your bedroom disturbed by streetlights, early sunrise or external glow and you need really dark space to sleep? → Lean blackout What room is it for? If it’s a living room where you still want natural light and a cosy feel, thermal may be more suitable. If it’s a restful space like a bedroom, blackout may win.  Consider combining both In some cases, you might even layer: a thermal curtain for insulation + a blackout liner or separate blackout curtain for times you want darkness. This gives you the flexibility of insulation and full light control. See how it works on real products available Our  Amberley Thermal Lined Eyelet Curtains are a good example of a thermal-lined solution. Our  Hampton Thermal Velvet Eyelet Curtains add luxury texture along with thermal benefit. On the blackout side, check our  Carnoustie Blackout Eyelet Curtains and the Chester 100% Blackout Eyelet CurtainsThese show you how different ranges cater to each purpose. Practical winter tips Hang your curtains as close to the wall or ceiling as possible to minimise draught paths. Ensure they extend past the window edge and ideally to the floor (or just above) to seal the window area. Use heavier heading styles (eyelet, pencil pleat) for better effect. Keep your window hardware durable-heavy fabrics need good poles/tracks. While a curtain helps a lot, it doesn’t replace proper window insulation or draught-proofing. It complements it. When it comes to winter, choosing between thermal vs blackout curtains isn’t about one being better than the other -it’s about which is more suitable for your space and your needs. Next step? Take a look at your room: check your windows, lighting conditions, what you want your curtains to do. Then head over to our website to explore the thermal and blackout options (like those mentioned above), and you’ll be winter-ready in style. Winter comfort sorted.

How to Measure a Bay Window for Curtains - Your Step-by-Step Guide Avoid measuring mistakes - learn how to measure a bay window for curtains accurately and confidently, so your new window treatment fits like a glove. Why Getting the Measurement Right Matters Avoid the “too short or too narrow” nightmare If you under-measure your bay window you’ll end up with curtains that … don’t quite reach or don’t fully close, leaving awkward gaps or light streaming where you didn’t want it. Ensure full curtains that gather and stack neatly Add enough width so that when your curtains are open, they can "stack" neatly at the sides, rather than blocking part of the view. Guides recommend adding at least 20-30 cm on each outer side. Make the installation future-proof When you measure well, you’ll choose the right hardware (pole or track), avoid nasty surprises when fitting brackets and get the aesthetic you’re after (think full-length drama, or modern neat finish). https://themillshop.co.uk/products/laura-ashley-haywood-holdback?_pos=9&_sid=cdbc105b8&_ss=r&variant=51674275643739/products/laura-ashley-haywood-holdback 1: Identify What Type of Bay You've Got Before pulling out the tape measure, it helps to know what sort of bay window you’re dealing with - because measurement varies slightly. Angled bay vs box bay vs curved/bow bay An angled bay has window panels that meet at clear corners (e.g. 3-sided or 5-sided). A box bay is more rectangular or square outward-projection. A bow bay or curved bay has gentle curves rather than sharp angles.Knowing this helps you decide whether you’ll use a bendable track, angled connectors or a rigid pole. Decide hardware: curtain track or pole As noted by bandaged guides, tracks (especially flexible ones) give more seamless movement around curves. Poles can work beautifully but need correct connectors and overhangs. Shop our hardware range here to choose from our options. Note the walls, returns, and side allowances Check whether the bay returns onto short walls (so curtains can sit back on those walls) or whether there is little side wall to tuck behind. This affects how much overhang to allow. 2: Measure the Width – The Crucial Number: This is the part where many people go wrong. Let’s break it down clearly. Step-by-step for angled bay Using a rigid tape or a soft tape (for curved tracks) measure the width of each wall section of the bay: from the start of the pole/track on side wall to the angle, then across the next section, and so on. Add the widths of all sides together to get the total width your pole or track will cover. Allow for overhang – it’s advisable to extend the pole/track beyond the outer windows by about 15-30 cm (6-12 in) on each outer side so the curtains can be drawn back without blocking light For curved or bow bays If your bay is curved, you’ll likely use a bendable track. You should run a soft tape or piece of string along the curve from the start to end point to get the width across the curve. Check for any finials, brackets or side limitations When using a pole, check whether finials add length, or whether the wall ends abruptly thus restricting how far you can overhang. Some guides emphasise subtracting allowance if brackets take up length.  3: Measure the Drop – How Long Should Your Curtains Be Once you know the width, next up is how far your curtains will drop – and of course you want it to look right. Decide how you want your curtains to finish Typical options in the UK: Above sill (just 1-2 cm above) Below sill (15-20 cm below) Floor length (1-2 cm above floor) – the most elegant for living rooms. Measure from correct fixing point For tracks: measure from the top edge of the track down. For poles: measure from the underside of the ring / eyelet (or where the curtain will hang). Some guides say measure from the top of pole then subtract a small allowance. Take three drop measurements Because walls/floors may not be perfectly level, take a measurement left, centre and right and use the shortest as your drop length. This avoids curtains hitting floor or bunching.  4: Practical Tips & Common Pitfalls to Avoid Allow for furniture, radiators or sills If you have a radiator under the bay window or deep sill, you might want curtains just to a sill length or slightly above radiator height rather than puddling on the floor. Many UK homes have this. Bracket vs ceiling fix If there’s less than ~15 cm above window frame to ceiling, a wall bracket may not fit and you’ll need a ceiling bracket for the pole/track. Make sure your heading style is compatible If using a track, some heading types (e.g., eyelets) may not work well because the hooks may snag at the corners in a bay. Good planning avoids that. Don’t assume symmetry Bay windows often aren’t perfectly symmetrical - each side could differ by a few cm. Measure each section individually rather than assuming “oh all five sides must be the same”. Double-check everything Yes, measure twice. Then check once more. While you’re already up on the stool. Because once you order your curtains or pole/track, changes may be costly or awkward. Ask someone to hold the tape if you can. /products/hampshire-pencil-pleat-curtains /products/eclipse-blackout-pencil-pleat-curtains 5: Now You’re Ready to Choose Curtains With accurate measurements in hand, you’re well on your way to selecting curtains that fit beautifully. Ready-made vs made-to-measure If your bay window dimensions are non-standard (which many are), you might want to explore made-to-measure. But if they fall into common size ranges, our ready-made curtains collection may suit you. Choose the right hardware for your measurement For example, you might use the flexible net rod for large bay windows if your bay has unusual angles or you’re after a more subtle curtain solution. Installing the correct pole/track means your curtains will hang and move as intended.